When dogs play outside, they are at risk of bringing home fleas. These tiny pests leave animals’ skin itchy and can quickly spread to furniture and your family. Knowing which dog grooming steps to take if you suspect an infestation will help minimize the problem. Below, Joe, Carol, and Peggy of Robinwood Kennel in Highland Heights, KY, share some tips for addressing a potential flea problem.

3 Dog Grooming Tips for Fighting Fleas

1. Check for Signs of Fleas

Most pet owners first begin to believe their pet has fleas when they start scratching, licking, or biting themselves more than usual. To look for the pests, comb their fur and examine their skin for live bugs and signs of their excrement. Bathing the dog is also an effective way to check for an infestation—fleas hate water and will usually jump off the animal once they get wet.

2. Use Medicated Shampoo

During the bath, use a specially formulated flea shampoo and follow the directions on the bottle. Most products need to sit on the dog’s coat and skin for several minutes to reach full effectiveness. After the bath, thoroughly comb your dog’s fur again and look for any remaining fleas. Check sensitive spots where fleas might hide, such as in the armpits or around the ears.

3. Clean the House

Wash your dog’s bedding and any other soft items they might have touched before their bath. Vacuum the floors, especially carpets, and all the furniture your dog sits on. Empty the vacuum canister or throw out the bag immediately after cleaning to avoid a re-infestation, as fleas can survive in the machine. 

Monthly flea treatments are usually the most effective way to prevent future infestations, so ask a veterinarian or dog grooming expert which products they recommend. If your pet attends dog day care, ask the staff whether your pet has been scratching more than usual after playing outside. The staff at Robinwood Kennel is vigilant about keeping their guests clean and happy, so they stay healthy and pest-free. Call (859) 781-2352 or visit them online to learn more about their dog sitting and grooming rates.